The Ministry of Public Security reports that alongside supportive messages and shared difficulties for flood-affected residents, some individuals have exploited the situation to spread misinformation. Notably, AI-generated falsehoods have continuously appeared, distorting facts and attacking authorities and relief forces. Others fabricated thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of unrescued people to gain views, solicit donations, profit, cause public panic, and further complicate the situation.

This information spreads rapidly, far exceeding the verification capabilities of official agencies. It impacts public opinion and hinders on-site management and relief operations.

For example, on 21 november, social media posts claimed "Am Chua Dam breaking", "Suoi Dau Dam breaking", and "urgent alerts: residents in Cho Ga area, Nha Trang, must evacuate." These reports caused panic among locals heavily impacted by the floods. Police determined this information was false, easily creating misunderstanding, and negatively affecting disaster response and relief efforts.

Immediately after, the Cyber Security and High-Tech Crime Prevention Department (Khanh Hoa Police) worked with two account holders, a 35-year-old man and a 37-year-old woman, both from Cam Lam district. They admitted to the violation, removed the posts, issued corrections, and pledged not to re-offend.

False information disseminated online. *Photo: Ministry of Public Security*

The Ministry of Public Security advises citizens to be vigilant when viewing and sharing information. They should condemn acts of spreading false reports, exploiting AI to create content that causes panic and obstructs relief efforts. Instead, people should share accurate information to help flood-affected residents overcome difficulties.

Police forces are implementing investigative and technical measures to detect, review, and verify acts of spreading misinformation. Individuals who share such content due to unintentional error will receive warnings or fines. Those who intentionally spread fake news, distort facts, cause serious harm, or engage in subversive activities will face severe penalties, including criminal prosecution.

Nhat Vy